Team India vs. Sarhad-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 received a major blow ahead of the opening Test. Australia at Optus Stadium in Perth.
Shubman Gill ruled out of Perth Test
Shubman Gill, one of India’s most reliable batsmen, was ruled out of the match due to a fractured left thumb while attempting a catch in an intra-team match against India A.
Adding to the challenges, skipper Rohit Sharma – recently becoming a father for the second time – will also miss the first Test and India’s batting order needs a major overhaul. Gill’s absence comes as a setback for the visitors, who are banking on his recent form to reach the top order.
Several other key players including KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan and Virat Kohli suffered injuries during the same intramurals. While Kohli underwent a scan and KL Rahul was ruled out with an elbow injury, both players are expected to recover in time. However, the situation has prompted the team management to consider reinforcements from the India A squad.
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Two leaders to replace Gill
Potential candidates to replace Gill include left-handers Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan emerged as the frontrunners. Both players put in a commendable performance against Australia A, strengthening their chances of breaking into the senior team.
“The team management will take a call but Sai or Devdutt is likely to be left behind. Despite the presence of Abhimanyu Easwara, the decision-makers do not want to take risks. TOI was quoted a close development.
Padikkal, who made his Test debut against England in Dharamsala earlier this year, brings international experience and solid technique to the table. On the other hand, Sudharsan’s domestic exploits, including two recent centuries against Delhi and a fifty against Saurashtra, make him a strong contender for a Test debut.
Having finalized their squad for the opening match of the series starting on November 22, India face a crucial decision. Known for its pace and bounce, the Perth pitch will require a strong batting line-up capable of countering Australia’s formidable bowling attack.
As the countdown to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins, the selection strategy of the Indian team management will play a crucial role in determining their fate in this high-stakes series.
